2001 Ariel Atom vs. 1997 Saturn SL
To start off, 2001 Ariel Atom is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Saturn SL would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Saturn SL weights approximately 595 kg more than 2001 Ariel Atom.
Because 2001 Ariel Atom is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Ariel Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Saturn SL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Saturn SL (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 1997 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Ariel | Saturn |
| Model | Atom | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
